Arrest Made After Montel Williams’ Production Company’s Equipment Stolen From Statesville Hotel Parking Lot

STATESVILLE, N.C. (News Release) — Statesville Police say they arrested a man after Montel Williams’ production company’s equipment was stolen from a hotel parking lot.

On January 22, 2024, at approximately 9:04am, the Statesville Police Department responded to a call for assistance at the Courtyard Marriott, located at 1530 Cinema Drive, regarding a larceny incident.

Upon arrival at the scene, investigators from the Criminal Investigations Division met with members of a production crew working on Montel Williams’ “Miltary Makeover with Montel”. The production crew reported that their equipment and luggage had been left unattended in the hotel’s parking lot for a brief period. Upon their return to the vehicle, the production crew discovered that their equipment and personal belongings had been stolen.

In a collaborative effort with nearby businesses, investigators effectively located and identified the suspect vehicle—a green 2001 Nissan Altima. Through the course of the investigation, the suspect was identified as James Clifford Collins, Jr., a 45-year-old resident residing at 415 Branchwood Road, Statesville. Furthermore, investigators successfully recovered all property belonging to the production crew.

James Clifford Collins Jr

James Clifford Collins Jr

Collins has been charged with Felony Larceny and Possession of Stolen Property and has been issued a $5,000 secured bond.

The Statesville Police Department extends its appreciation to our partners at N.C. Probation and Parole and the Iredell County Sheriff’s Office for their assistance throughout the investigative process.